Webster: Ingram wants to be with Raptors

Raptors general manager Bobby Webster shot down speculation that newly acquired forward Brandon Ingram didn't want to join the franchise.

"Brandon wants to be here," Webster said Friday, according to Sportsnet's Blake Murphy. "I think this was an intentional effort by him, and we appreciate that."

The Raptors acquired Ingram before the trade deadline from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for wing Bruce Brown, center Kelly Olynyk, a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2031 second-round pick.

Ingram, a one-time All-Star, is in the final year of a five-year, $158-million contract. Webster said extension conversations are ongoing and he believes both sides are in the same ballpark, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN.

The Raptors general manager called acquiring Ingram "an important step in the rebuild," per Murphy. Webster added that the 27-year-old is "entering his prime; by no means is he a finished product.

"I think we're expecting a spark as far as a fresh start for him."

Webster is also optimistic about Ingram's fit with wing Scottie Barnes.

"Scottie wants to share the ball, Brandon wants to score the ball," Webster said, per Lewenberg. "I think that's sort of a natural fit. ... You can never have too many difference makers. High IQ players, great feel for the game, long, athletic. So, our kind of guy."

Ingram has averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in 18 games this season. He hasn't played since early December due to a severe ankle sprain.